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The Commodore is the best place period. The quality of talent there will humble you but don't let that stop you. The first time there you have to wait until about 10pm to get on so you'll be listening to at least 3 hours of great songs by some very talented singers. At 10pm most of the audience will leave but don't let that bother you either. The writers left are just as good and I got a couple friends out of the night. You will enjoy yourself!

Going out West End look for the McDonalds on the right. (My Nashville office) The Commodore is across the street in the Holiday Inn. Another favorite of mine is Pick's Lounge on Monday nights at the Best Western Motel, formerly the Hall of Fame Inn. Across from BMI complex. Great sound system, sound man, lights and a listening audience.

There were several guest writers in round formats, as well as solo / small group acts. I heard a few really good songs, and a some fine performers. The focus is on presenting songs, so the rounds, and solo / duo / trio format makes sense.

FYI, When the Open Mic part of the Writer's Night rolled around, last Sunday night, participants were invited to play one song each. All performed solo.

However, the next Saturday night program was canceled, due to a home game at Vanderbilt.

Unfortunately, the web site is not updated consistently, so there was no way to know about the "no writer's night during home game" policy.

Also, when I called the phone number posted on the link above, I got the front desk of the hotel, instead of the Commodore. They tried to connect me, but after waiting on the line, the next person to pick up was ... the hotel front desk.

So, getting in touch to confirm that a Writer's Night is still "on" can be ... challenging. Your mileage may vary ...

Word to the wise, check the Vanderbilt web site before you drive in for a night at the Commodore.

There don't seem to be any alternative Saturday Night Open Mics in Nashville, at least none that I could find posted on the web.

I made it back to the Commodore again this past Saturday, and this time Rick let the "open mic" folks perform two songs each.

The best tune I heard all night was by a staff person of the hotel, who sang "Band-aids for Bullet Holes". Simply wonderful. Sorry, I didn't catch her name.

There was a broad variety of sounds, like the time before, and some fairly talented folks playing and singing. One of the non-scheduled (open mic) players had a very catchy groove going on his guitar, that was very enjoyable.

The emphasis was on the songs, as it should be, but I can't help but think the songs would make better impressions if they were presented with a higher level of musicianship, in many cases.